Maintenance routines to prevent rust on coated fencing

       1. Regular Inspection (Monthly or Quarterly)

Routine inspections are the first line of defense against rust. Check for:

• Peeling or flaking coating
• Scratches or gouges
• Rust spots or discoloration
• Loose fasteners or joints
• Water accumulation near base

Use a flashlight to inspect under shaded or hidden areas, especially near ground level.

       2. Clean Your Fence Periodically

Dust, sand, salt, and industrial pollutants can wear down protective coatings. Cleaning helps extend coating lifespan.

Cleaning Method:

• Use mild detergent, warm water, and a soft brush or sponge
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water
• Avoid harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, or abrasive scrubbers

Tip: For PVC-coated fencing in coastal UAE areas, rinse with clean water monthly to remove salt deposits.

       3. Touch-Up Coating Damaged Areas

Minor damage to galvanized or PVC-coated fencing should be repaired immediately to avoid spreading rust.

How to Repair:

• For galvanized fences, use zinc-rich cold galvanizing paint
• For PVC-coated fences, use PVC repair coating or plastic-compatible sealant
• For stainless steel, clean affected area and apply passivation solution

At Al Miqat Hardware, we can recommend coating brands that are compatible with our fencing products.

       4. Trim Nearby Vegetation

Grass, bushes, or vines that come into contact with your fencing can trap moisture and encourage rust formation.

• Trim back all vegetation at least 6 inches from the fence
• Don’t allow plants to grow or climb over the fence
• Remove any buildup of organic matter near the fence base

       5. Ensure Proper Drainage Around the Fence

Poor drainage leads to standing water, especially near fence posts. Over time, this can cause rusting from the bottom up.

Tips:

• Elevate base of posts above ground grade
• Use gravel or concrete footing for better drainage
• Slope surrounding soil away from fence base

This is especially important in landscaped or agricultural installations.

       6. Apply Protective Coatings Annually (If Needed)

In highly corrosive environments like industrial zones or coastal locations, applying an additional protective coating once a year helps extend fence life.

Options include:

• Anti-rust sprays
• Clear sealants compatible with PVC or galvanized surfaces
• Silicone-based protectants for water resistance

       7. Secure Loose Components Immediately

Loose wires, broken ties, or wobbly posts allow movement and friction, which wear away coatings faster. Over time, this causes micro-scratches that eventually rust.

Fix immediately by:

• Refastening wire ties or replacing them with UV-resistant zip ties
• Tightening bolts and clamps
• Reinforcing fence tension where sagging is visible

       8. Avoid Metal-to-Metal Contact

Where two different metals touch, galvanic corrosion can occur. Always use insulated connectors, rubber washers, or PVC sleeves to avoid metal contact between dissimilar materials.